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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) recently welcomed Representative Kunse and State Senator Hauck to our Head Start preschool classrooms for a special story time and a firsthand look at early childhood education in action.

The visits took place at our Clare and Farwell sites on April 14th and 21st, where each had the opportunity to read to the children and talk with teachers and staff. These visits offered insight into how Head Start supports children and families through comprehensive early learning and family-focused services.

“It meant so much to have State Senator Hauck and Representative Kunse spend time with our students,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “The children were so excited to have special visitors read to them, and it’s always powerful when leaders in our community take time to see firsthand the joy, growth, and connection happening in our classrooms every day.”

At Mid Michigan Community Action, we’re proud to serve 350 children and their families through our Head Start programs. With over 26 years of experience providing quality early learning, we’ve seen firsthand the long-term benefits—children who attend Head Start are more likely to graduate high school, pursue higher education, and build stability and long-term success.

We also work closely with families, recognizing that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. Our program helps remove barriers and support caregivers in creating positive, engaging home environments. Research shows that Head Start families are more likely to read together, continue their own education, and be more involved in their child’s learning journey.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Head Start program provides no-cost preschool to eligible children ages 3 through 5, promoting school readiness through individualized learning, nutritious meals, and access to health and developmental services.

For more information about Head Start or other early childhood programs, visit www.mmcaa.org or call 989-386-8075.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is proud to recognize Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Week, observed from March 16-22, and the essential role CACFP plays in ensuring children receive nutritious meals every day.

Each year, CACFP provides federal funding to facilities including licensed childcare centers, Head Start programs, public and private schools, after-school care programs, and emergency shelters to offer healthy meals and snacks. In Michigan alone, CACFP supports the distribution of more than 6.2 million breakfasts, 7.3 million lunches, 12 million snacks, and 5.4 million suppers annually to children and adults in care.

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to participate in this program, making it possible for our 12 Preschool classrooms in Clare and Gladwin Counties to serve more than 40,000 meals and snacks so far during the 2024-2025 program year. A total of 215 children in our program have received CACFP-funded meals, ensuring they have access to nutritious, balanced meals that support their growth and learning. Through CACFP funding, we purchase fresh, healthy foods from local stores and vendors to provide high-quality meals to the children in our care.

"Proper nutrition is critical for young children’s growth, learning, and overall well-being," said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. "CACFP makes it possible for us to provide high-quality meals and snacks to the children in our program, ensuring they have the fuel they need to thrive in the classroom."

Preschool Enrollment is Open!
Mid Michigan CAA is currently accepting applications for its Preschool program which serves children from three through five in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Children enrolled in preschool build kindergarten readiness skills, engage in classroom activities, and enjoy nutritious meals and snacks at no cost to eligible families.

Families interested in Preschool can apply online at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call (989) 386-8075 for more information.
To learn more about all of our early childhood programs, visit www.mmcaa.org/childrenandfamilies or call or text 989-386-3805.

Mid Michigan Community Action is committed to providing children with high-quality education, nutritious meals, and the resources they need to succeed. As we celebrate CACFP Week, we recognize the impact this program has on the children we serve and our ability to continue supporting local families.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

This October Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role that both Early Head Start and Preschool Head Start programs play in the development of young children and families. These programs work together to provide critical resources and comprehensive support for children from birth through age 5 and pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive the education, health, and family services needed for a strong start in life.

Early Head Start serves pregnant individuals and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties, focusing on nurturing infant and toddler development during these critical early years. The program helps parents build strong bonds with their children, supports health and wellness, and offers resources to create a foundation for lifelong learning.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important developmental years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Early Head Start & WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We partner with parents to support pregnancies and provide the guidance and resources needed to help infants and toddlers grow, learn, and build strong relationships. It’s truly about giving families the tools to support their child’s healthy development right from the start.”

Preschool serves children from ages 3 through 5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, providing high-quality early education that promotes school readiness through play, hands-on learning, and the development of essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

“Our Preschool program is all about creating a strong foundation for children as they prepare for school,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We focus on nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills through engaging, play-based learning. Head Start is more than just education—it’s about empowering children and their families to thrive.”

To learn more or apply for Early Head Start, visit www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

To learn more or apply for Preschool, visit www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart or call 989-386-8075.
 
Mid Michigan CAA is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and family services through programs like Head Start. We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment and reach their fullest potential.
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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 on September 1st, 2023 are eligible.

Preschool provides learning opportunities, social emotional activities, and structured playtime for children ages 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Children enrolled in preschool transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn.

“We make partnering with families the heart of our approach to early learning and child development,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

To complete an application, call 989-386-8075, visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org, or attend one of our upcoming open houses:

• April 25th from 4-6 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1302 Chatterton St, Gladwin
• April 26th from 4-6 PM at Gladwin Elementary School, Door 7, 600 W First St, Gladwin
• May 4th from 4-6 PM at Beaverton Activity Center, 106 Tonkin St, Beaverton
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1574 E Washington Rd, Farwell
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Hillside Elementary, 201 N 4th St, Harrison
• May 10th from 5-7 PM at Clare Castle Preschool, 502 Beech St, Clare
• May 22nd from 4-6 PM at Farwell Elementary School, 268 Ohio St, Farwell

Please bring your child’s birth certificate, health insurance card, and immunization record; and your driver’s license or ID and income for the last 12 months (SSI, check stubs, child support, unemployment, 1040, or W2).

Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership is a collaboration of five local agencies and schools providing Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program services throughout Clare and Gladwin Counties. The Partnership is a workgroup of the Great Start Collaborative of Clare and Gladwin Counties.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

​Head Start Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate the numerous benefits of Head Start. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) operates a Head Start program which includes Preschool for children from 3 through 5, Early Head Start for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3, as well as Policy Council for parents of currently enrolled children giving voice to policy and supporting program operations.  

Preschool gives children a head start by supporting healthy physical, academic, and social-emotional development. Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool program provides structured play time, activities, and learning opportunities for children from 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties.

“Children enrolled in a high-quality Preschool program transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn. Our Preschool services include basic need support, education, and community resources to support children and families. The health and well-being of our children, families and staff is always our highest priority,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Early Head Start supports family-child relationships that encourage healthy growth and development for early learning and success ​. Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start program provides supportive services for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.

“Early Head Start services include basic needs support, early education, infant/toddler development, family support, and community resources. We are committed to our families. Now more than ever we can provide a warm blanket of support for our families and young children,” said Sue Harvey, Early Head Start and WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Policy Council gives parents of enrolled children the opportunity to work with program staff to communicate ideas and contribute to program decisions to ensure children receive the best education and experience possible.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool Head Start is enrolling 3 and 4-year-olds in Clare and Gladwin Counties now. To complete an application, call 989-386-8075 or visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start is enrolling now for those who are pregnant or have a child from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. To complete an interest form, call or text us at 1-877-386-4406 or visit www.mmcaa.org/ehs.

Parents of enrolled children interested in joining Policy Council should contact Vicki Bohr at 989-426-2801 or [email protected].

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for Early Head Start (EHS). EHS provides supportive services for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.

EHS gives children and families the best start by supporting family-child relationships that encourage healthy growth and development for early learning and success. Services include weekly visits as well as playgroups and parent meetings. Families will receive supplies to support young learners and provide family fun. Families will also have access to activities including story time, recipes, crafts, and much more.

“Early Head Start provides families services including basic need support, early education and infant/toddler development, family support, and community resources. The health and well-being of the children, families and staff is always our highest priority. Now more than ever we can provide a warm blanket of support for our children and families,” said Sue Harvey, Early Head Start and WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

To complete an interest form for Early Head Start, call or text 1-877-386-4406 or visit www.mmcaa.org/ehs.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for Preschool. Preschool provides structured playtime, activities, and learning opportunities for children from 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties.

Preschool gives children a head start by supporting healthy physical, academic, and social-emotional development so they transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn.

“We make partnering with families the heart of our approach to early learning and child development,” said Caron Stanton, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool is enrolling now for the 2022-2023 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 on September 1st, 2022 are eligible. To complete an application, call 989-386-8075 or visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Head Start Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate the numerous benefits of Head Start. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) operates a Head Start program which includes Preschool for children from 3 through 5, Early Head Start for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3, as well as Policy Council for parents of currently enrolled children to work with staff on program decisions.

Preschool gives children a head start by supporting healthy physical, academic, and social-emotional development so they transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn. Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool program provides structured play time, activities, and learning opportunities for children from 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties.

“We continue to provide Preschool services including basic need support, education, and community resources to support our children and families through the unprecedented challenges of this pandemic. Staff receive emergency preparedness and infectious disease management training to ensure the safety of the children as well as themselves. The health and well-being of the children, families and staff is always our highest priority,” said Caron Stanton, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Early Head Start gives children and families the best start by supporting healthy development and building school readiness for early learning and future success​. Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start program provides supportive services for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.

“During this pandemic we have continued to provide Early Head Start services including basic needs support, early education and infant/toddler development, family support, and community resources. We are committed to our families. Now more than ever we can provide a warm blanket of support for our new families and young children,” said Sue Harvey, Early Head Start and WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Policy Council gives parents of enrolled children the opportunity to work with program staff to communicate ideas and contribute to program decisions to ensure children receive the best education and experience possible.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool Head Start is enrolling 3 and 4-year-olds in Clare and Gladwin Counties now. To complete an application, call 989-386-8075 or visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start is enrolling now for those who are pregnant or have a child from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. To complete an interest form, call or text us at 1-877-386-4406 or visit www.mmcaa.org/ehs.

Parents of enrolled children interested in joining Policy Council should contact Vicki Bohr at 989-426-2801 or [email protected].

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at for news and updates.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Community Action Month is a celebration of the accomplishments of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) across the country. CAAs are a robust state and local force, reaching individuals and families in 99 percent of America’s counties with life-changing services that create pathways to prosperity.

As part of the CAA network, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) serves Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. Over the past year, our communities have faced unprecedented challenges including a pandemic and a 500 year flood event. In the face of these obstacles, Mid Michigan CAA has adapted to serving clients through largely virtual means while continuing to administer all programs and even adding additional services as new and increased needs arose.

Last year, Mid Michigan CAA distributed 48,441 food boxes or 750 tons of food. As a response to increased food insecurity due to the pandemic, they were able to distribute 55 more tons of food than the year before.

Despite swift changes to the programs, Mid Michigan CAA’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs served 533 children last year. These programs provide support for children and families. They use a curriculum that supports school readiness and coordinate with area public schools to facilitate smooth transitioning for each child.

In the 2019 income tax season, Mid Michigan CAA processed returns for 440 households, bringing $478,566 in returns back into Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties.

Last year, Mid Michigan CAA weatherized 44 homes through the Weatherization Assistance Program. An additional 23 households received roofing repair assistance through the Housing Preservation Grant. These services make homes safer, healthier, more comfortable, and more affordable for the residents.

In 2020, Mid Michigan CAA administered the Eviction Diversion program, helping residents in 180 households stay in their homes.
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“The last year brought changes and challenges we could never have imagined. In response, we were able to expand our services and add new programs to address the needs of our communities. We are energized at being asked to serve our communities in ways we’ve never done before,” said Jill Sutton, Executive Director of Mid Michigan Community Action. “And while there is still work to be done, we are proud to continue ‘helping people, changing lives.’”

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for Preschool. Preschool provides structured play time, activities, and learning opportunities for children from 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties.

Preschool gives children a head start by supporting healthy physical, academic, and social-emotional development so they transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn. Virtual and in-person class options are available. Technology is provided as needed.

“We continue to provide Preschool services including basic need support, education, and community resources to support our children and families through the unprecedented challenges of this pandemic. Staff receive emergency preparedness and infectious disease management training to ensure the safety of the children as well as themselves. The health and well-being of the children, families and staff is always our highest priority. Now more than ever we can provide a warm blanket of support for our children and their families,” said Sue Harvey, Early Childhood Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool is enrolling now for the 2021-2022 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 on September 1st, 2021 are eligible. To complete an application, call 989-386-8075 or apply online.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at for news and updates.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.